leaving randy jackson, the only original judge left. >> it doesn't really feel like "american idol" anymore. >> reporter: there are rumors galore about high wattage replacements. jennifer lopez, elton john, steven tyler, brett michaels, just to name a few. >> a lot needs to change in order for the show to really be as fun, fresh and viable as it's been in this last eight years. >> reporter: for a show that celebrates the underdog, few are counting "idol" out, but next season the pop culture sensation is getting a makeover, whether it likes it or not. for "today," lee cowan, nbc news, los angeles. >> you know, i watch the show every week and you sit on your couch and play arm chair quarterback. oh, that guy is terrible, but i could see it, you get up in front of all these people and you have a hard time being that critical of someone. >> a lot of them are amateurs. did you like the list of potential new judges? >> i do, i do. i think there should be a rotating spot for sunday weekend anchors but that's just me. maybe, perhaps. >> i was going to suggest donald trump. >> he'd let everybody go.